Two-thirds of Brits are suffering from “eco-paralysis” – and are left feeling confused and “overwhelmed” by the sheer amount of information on how to be more environmentally friendly, according to research.
A poll of 2,000 adults found that almost half (43%) find their efforts to be more green stalled by conflicting information over the right thing to do.
Nearly six in 10 (57%) feel they don't understand which products are actually good for the environment, and 38% are unsure if their eco-changes are having the desired impact.
As a result, many have deemed efforts to be more sustainable as bothersome, expensive, and confusing.
The most disruptive change Brits have tried to make is using public transport instead of driving, according to 52% of those polled.
But while many struggle with eco-activities, one in three (32%) describe them as easy – with half of these finding it simple to incorporate recycling into their lives.
Henk Van den Berg, eco-heating expert at heat pump manufacturer Daikin UK, which commissioned the research as part of its mission to simplify the search for eco-home heating solutions, said: “The results show that many people are feeling held back from taking steps towards being more sustainable.
“Unsurprisingly, the expense associated with switching to some greener alternatives is a bigger deterrent now than ever.
“It’s clear that the nation wants to do more, but is struggling to know exactly where to begin.”
The survey also found three-quarters of homeowners think it is important their property is environmentally friendly.
When it comes to considering switching to a more energy-efficient heating system, such as a heat pump, the overall perceived cost of installations, and confusion about what would work well for their property, are the leading reasons which have held them back.
However, 43% claim a heat pump is something they are considering in the future.
Almost two-thirds (60%) think lower running costs will help keep their bills down, while half (51%) want one to reduce their carbon emissions.
However, 64% find it difficult to know where to turn in order to make an informed decision about creating a greener home.
And a third of those polled, via OnePoll, have spoken to friends and family to try and overcome the barriers they face when considering an environmentally friendly home improvement.
This has subsequently caused six in ten to delay making eco-friendly changes, because they were overwhelmed by the amount of information available.
Henk Van den Berg, for Daikin, which has a network of Sustainable Home Centres, added: “It appears many homeowners are stuck in a state of “eco-paralysis” when it comes to making cost-effective, impactful changes to their property.
“Thankfully, there are lots of small changes they can adopt to benefit the planet and, crucially, bring down energy bills.
“Simple solutions, such as switching to LED light bulbs and adjusting home appliances to eco-friendly settings, can help to lower your energy use.
“There are also more substantial, longer-term measures to consider for the future, such as upgrading your heating system – and that’s where our growing network of Sustainable Home Centres across the UK is ready to help.”
